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Dyshidrotic eczema

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Skin layers
Skin layers

Alternative Names    Return to top

Dyshidrosis; Pompholyx

Definition    Return to top

Dyshidrotic eczema is a condition in which small, itchy blisters develop on the hands and feet.

Causes    Return to top

The cause is unknown. The condition seems to appear during certain times of the year.

Symptoms    Return to top

Small fluid-filled blisters called vesicles appear on the hands and feet. They are most common along the edges of the fingers, toes, palms and soles. These blisters cause intense itching.

Scratching leads to skin changes and skin thickening. There may be cracks on the fingers or toes.

Large blisters may cause pain.

Exams and Tests    Return to top

Your doctor may be able to diagnose this condition by simply looking at your skin.

Sometimes, a skin biopsy or skin scraping may be needed to rule out other causes such as a fungal infection.

Treatment    Return to top

Do not scratch the blisters. You should avoid frequent bathing and irritating substances, which can make itching worse.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Dyshidrotic eczema normally goes away without problems, but symptoms may later return. Excess scratching may lead to thick, irritated skin, which is more difficult to treat and takes longer to heal.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your doctor if you have tenderness, redness, warmth, or fever, which may be signs of an infection. You should also call your doctor if you have any type of rash that does not go away with simple home treatments.

References    Return to top

Behrman RE. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 17th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004.

Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2004.

Update Date: 10/28/2008

Updated by: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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